Prisons mum on drugs probe

The investigation follows a failed plot by prisoners to stage a mass prison break while the nation was preparing for Tropical Cyclone Gita on Friday. (Photo: Joyetter Luamanu)

The Samoa Prisons and Correction Services has declined to comment on an investigation by the Police regarding drugs being smuggled into the prison.

Responding to questions from the Samoa Observer, Assistant Chief Executive Officer, Ulugia Niuia Aumua said they would rather focus on maintaining the security of the Prison at Tafa’igata.

Earlier this week, Police Superintendent and Media Spokesperson, Auapa’au Logoitino Filipo, confirmed that investigations over claims that drugs, mainly marijuana, are being sold inside the Tafa’igata Prison are underway.

The investigation follows a failed plot by prisoners to stage a mass prison break while the nation was preparing for Tropical Cyclone Gita on Friday.

The plan was apparently concocted by the senior hierarchy among the prisoner population, the Samoa Observer was told.

Police were tipped off and 90 officers turned up at the Prison.

“During the raid, marijuana joints and a stash of cash were discovered,” Auapa’au said. “The Police are now investigating the discovery.”

The Samoa Observer sent questions to the Samoa Prisons and Correction Services regarding drugs being smuggled into the Prison and Ulugia declined to comment.

“The S.P.C.S. has no comments to make and will not respond to the questions at this time.

“Our focus and priority at the moment is maintaining security in our prisons.

“The Police have provided you with the information as per your attached email and we have no further comments to add.”

Ulugia acknowledged the staff at the Prisons and Correction Services.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the families of all Corrections Officers for their support due to the environment officers work under and the hard work our officers put in each day.”